Birth of Christ Prophesied
This time of year many people celebrate the birth of Christ. But they may not be aware of the significance of the prophecies that were fulfilled when he was born. Today, we are going to discuss three of the prophecies and their importance.
His Virgin Birth – Matt 1:23. The virgin birth of Jesus fulfilled the prophecy given to Ahaz in Isaiah 7:14.
- A birth by a virgin is impossible. But with God all things are possible. It was supernatural.
- Emmanuel – God with us. If Mary’s conception had been with Joseph, her child would have been the descendant of Adam. All descendants of Adam are conceived in sin and, therefore, condemned to death by sin. In the virgin birth, Jesus was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Lk 1:34-35. Thus, he is the Son of God as a begotten child of God and he is the Son of man as a child of Mary. He is literally God manifest in the flesh.
His Birth in Bethlehem – Matt 2:1-6. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, he fulfilled the prophecy in Mic 5:2.
- Remarkable events led to this, Lk 2:1-6. Joesph and Mary lived in Nazareth. But because of the tax decree, they were required to travel to Bethlehem. God moved in the affairs of men, Prov 21:1, to fulfill this prophecy.
- The chief priests and scribes knew this prophecy and knew it pertained to their “ruler in Israel”. The wise men called him the King of the Jews.
- He is from Judah, Mic 5:2, and specifically from the line of David. He had to be from David in order to sit on the throne of David, Is 9:6-7.
- He is from everlasting and therefore God manifest in the flesh.
His Star in the East – Matt 2:2. Fulfills Balaam’s prophecy in Num 24:17.
- The wise men (not kings, not numbered) came out of the east, Dan 1:19-21, which is where Daniel had been. They knew to look for this star and knew that it related to the Messiah, Dan 9:24-25.
- This star testifies to his first coming when he was born and his second coming with a scepter when he will return to rule and to smite his enemies.
Conclusion: when he came as a child he came to redeem us. When he returns he will come to rule. Right now he is the gift of God who will save you if you receive him. In the future he is the king who will judge you if you don’t. Receive the gift of Jesus Christ today.